Total external ophthalmoplegia induced by phenytoin. A case report

Total external ophthalmoplegia was observed in a patient following oral administration of phenytoin, although the state of consciousness was relatively unimpaired and the plasma phenytoin level was within the recommended therapeutic range. This report demonstrates the potency of phenytoin to act selectively on the vestibulo-ocular system. Recognition of such association may be important as regards further investigations aimed at excluding structural brainstem lesions.